A trip to ‘La Belle Provence’ of Quebec would not be complete without a visit to Montreal. This cosmopolitan and vibrant city is home to 4 million residents of 120 different nationalities. This exciting diversity is evident in the array of restaurants around the city. You could do this 3 Day Montreal Itinerary over a long weekend or a mid-week break.
How to Get There
Montreal is located 251km southwest of Quebec City, less than a 3-hour drive. There is both plane and train service between the two cities. It is also an easy road trip from Toronto and the GTA approximately a 5-hour drive.
Location
Montreal is on an island in the St. Lawrence River and is the largest city in the province of Quebec. Montreal is also an old city with 375 years of history to share. French colonial architecture is on display all over the city. Montreal has several distinct neighbourhoods each offering specific sights and activities for visitors to enjoy. You can see this city on foot as it is easily walkable. For some of the best hotel deals check them out here.
Our 3 day Montreal itinerary is a great guide for the best way to spend your time during your trip. We have put together a few of the best things to see and do in this beautiful city.
Montreal Itinerary Day 1
Do a Self- Guided Old Montreal Walking Tour
Old Montreal is filled with lovely architecture, cobblestone streets, and great restaurants close to the river. Start your walk from Place d’Armes.
You will find a true landmark of this area, the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.
Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal
This beautiful and historic church is filled with gold leaf décor, paintings, stained glass, and wood carvings. There are daily tours available in order to see the church in between religious ceremonies.
Across from the Place d’Armes and the Basilica, you will see an impressive piece of old architecture. This is the Bank of Montreal’s Head office.
The Bank of Montreal
The Bank of Montreal is Canada’s oldest bank founded over 200 years ago in 1817. Take a look inside the lobby of this magnificent piece of architecture built in the neoclassical style.
Take a stroll down Notre-Dame St East past Montreal’s City Hall and you will find yourself at Place Jaques Cartier.
Visit Musée Chateau Ramezay at the top of the square.
Musée Chateau Ramezay
The Musée Chateau Ramezay is the former home of Claude de Ramezay who was the governor of Montreal in 1705. There are several exhibitions on display showing the history and daily life of the French colonists. Behind the museum is a large garden that you can walk through to enjoy the many flowers and plants.
Once outside of the museum, take in the view of the restaurant-lined square. It is filled with many touristy type restaurants with menus and hosts outside urging you to come inside.
Place Jacques Cartiers
Jardin Nelson
One stop we do like to make is at Jardin Nelson. This beautiful outdoor venue filled with trees and plants. There is also live jazz music between spring and early fall. You can grab a quick local Quebec beer or stay for lunch before continuing on with your walk.
Marché Bonsecours
A brief walk east on Rue Saint Paul you will find the Bonsecours Market. This historic landmark has many great boutique shops and galleries to visit.
Right next door to Marché Bonsecours a great stop for a view.
Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum and Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel
Visit the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum and Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. Here you will see religious artifacts and crypts over 300 years old. Scale the chapel for unobstructed views of the Old Port and riverside.
Rue Saint Paul
From here take a long stroll along Rue Saint Paul. A bustling area with numerous boutiques, cafes, bars, and restaurants all built into the historic architecture.
Olive and Gourmando
A great place for a rest stop is Olive and Gourmando. This bakery and café have an array of artisanal goods, salads, and sandwiches. They also serve coffee, tea, and cold beverages.
Stash Cafe
Another recommended stop for lunch or dinner is Stash Café. A Polish restaurant located along Rue Saint Paul. They have served traditional Eastern European cuisine for 30 years.
Pointe-a-Calliere museum
The Pointe-a-Calliere museum of archaeology and history is a great way to learn about the First Nations of Montreal as well as the British and French arrival. The museum has several permanent exhibitions along with hosting temporary exhibitions annually.
Montreal Itinerary Day 2
Visit Mount Royal and Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Mount Royal
Mount Royal is the 233-meter summit located in the center of Montreal which provides a superb lookout over the city. The origin of the city’s name comes from Mont Royal. The natural beauty of this area draws both locals and tourists all year long. There are several hiking trails to enjoy.
Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Saint Joseph’s Oratory one of Montreal’s most famous landmarks is also located atop Mount Royal. This regal domed basilica with its’ outdoor gardens adds to the Mount Royal experience. You can easily enjoy this sight with a self-guided tour.
A Couple of Great Food Stops
With so many great choices of food and restaurants in Montreal, it’s hard to pick where to go. While you’re in the neighborhood, I suggest you visit two Montreal institutions.
Schwartz Deli
Schwartz is the oldest deli in Canada and has been serving its famously delicious smoked meat since 1928. Located on Saint Laurent Boulevard for over 90 years Schwartz is a true Montreal landmark. Just ask for a smoked meat sandwich, fries, pickle, and black cherry cola. They give you a choice of how lean you want it.
St. Viateur Bagel
Montreal bagels are another local delicacy that must be enjoyed during your visit. St-Viator Bagel in our opinion has some of the best in Montreal. These bagels are made to be smaller and thinner with a large hole however the dough is denser with a sweet flavor as they are boiled in honey water before baked in wood-fired ovens. Just ask for at least half a dozen of the regular, which is the sesame seed covered bagels. You won’t be able to have just one!
Montreal Itinerary Day 3
Sights in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve (HoMa) Neighbourhood
Olympic Stadium
Montreal was the host city for the 1976 Olympic Games and in this neighbourhood you can visit the original Olympic stadium and parc. Today it is still used for sporting events. Atop the stadium is the Montreal Tower. Ascend via a thrilling inclined funicular ride up to the observatory and exhibition area. You will enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Montreal Botanical Gardens
Another great stop in HoMa is the expansive oasis of the Montreal Botanical Gardens. This site has 10 greenhouse exhibits and 30 thematic gardens. Be sure to see the indoor waterfall located in the main greenhouse.
More Great Things to Do in Montreal
Downtown (Centre-Ville)
Downtown Montreal or “Centre Ville” seems to have it all; business, gourmet cuisine, entertainment, museums, and of course shopping. Montreal hosts many festivals throughout the year with its’ downtown being the location for comedy and jazz venues. Stroll along Sainte-Catherine Street for her 11km of shopping options with many boutiques and department stores. While downtown, also be sure to check out the plentiful bars and restaurants in the pedestrian zone of Crescent Street.
Jean-Talon Market
The Jean-Talon Market has been a Montreal landmark since 1933. Being open year-round the market goods reflect the change of the seasons. The market showcases fresh summer produce, the fall harvest, and festive winter delights. The multicultural flavors and merchants here reflect the diversity of Montreal’s inhabitants. Amongst the many items on offer, you will find a variety of fresh flowers and produce, cheeses, fish, meats, oils, pastries, and spices. A true culinary destination the market also hosts gourmet demonstrations and workshops.
Biodome
The Biodome is the repurposed Velodrome from the 1975 Olympic Games. The name Biodome means ‘house of life’ and is an environmental oasis with 5 ecosystems inside. You can visit the: Tropical Rainforest, Gulf of St. Lawrence, Laurentian Maple Forest, and the Labrador Coast / Sub Antarctic Islands. There are also lots of animals that live within each ecosystem ranging from birds, cats, fish, reptiles, and penguins. The Biodome is a top Montreal sight worthy of a day’s visit.
Dinner Recommendations
So many choices!! But if you get a chance check out these fantastic places.
Modavie
Modavie restaurant is a charming and cozy eatery located in the heart of Old Montreal. The restaurant features live jazz music performances every night, adding to the already lively and vibrant atmosphere.
The menu at Modavie is a fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the duck confit, the grilled octopus, and the lamb chops which are fabulous!
Modavie is a must-visit restaurant in Montreal for anyone looking for a delicious meal, exceptional service, and a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Stash Café
Stash Café is a Polish restaurant located in Old Montreal which has served traditional Eastern European cuisine for 30 years. Their food is wonderful and the portions are generous with a fixed menu option “Table D’Hote”.
The ambiance of this restaurant is charming and there is a great piano player for entertainment. We would highly recommend Stash Café as a top dining pick when visiting Montreal.
For more recommendations on where to eat in Montreal check our post on The 7 Best Places to Eat in Montreal.
Where to Stay
Sheraton Hotel
We have stayed at many different hotels in Montreal however Le Centre Sheraton is a trusted favourite. This hotel is located in a prime downtown location with the Bell Centre, St Catherine and Crescent streets just steps away.
Hotel Place d’Armes
The Hotel Place d’Armes makes for a luxurious and memorable stay in Old Montreal. This hotel is comprised of 4 historic buildings which all date back to the 19th century. Guests can choose amongst the standard rooms, suites, studios, or larger penthouses. There is also a spa and rooftop terrace on site. For another hotel recommendation in Old Montreal check our post on Hotel Nelligan here.
We hoped you enjoyed our 3 day Montreal itinerary. This just gives you a good taste of the magic of Montreal. We have traveled there many times over the last 20 years and every time we find something new to experience.
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